SEPTA celebrates modernization of two 1920s-era subway stations

Two 1920s-era subway stations on Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority's Broad Street Line have been modernized under a $30 million project funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

This milestone was marked by SEPTA officials, who gathered with elected officials, community members and other dignitaries on June 25 for a ribbon-cutting to mark the end of construction at the Spring Garden and Girard stations.

This project was one of 32 that SEPTA embarked on with $191 million in ARRA funding. Spring Garden-Girard was SEPTA's largest stimulus initiative. SEPTA has completed all of its ARRA-funded projects.

"This project represents a major step forward in SEPTA's ongoing effort to improve customer service," said general manager Joseph Casey. "With these renovations, the Spring Garden and Girard stations are now ready to serve a new generation of SEPTA riders."

The project provided the first major overhaul for the Girard and Spring Garden stations, which were originally built more than 90 years ago. The stations have remained key Broad Street Line stops through the years and currently serve nearly 10,000 riders a day.

Prior to the project, both stations were showing significant signs of deterioration due to use and age. Now, riders are enjoying a full slate of modern amenities, such as new stairs, turnstiles, floor tiles and enhanced, energy-efficient lighting. With the installation of elevators and other enhancements, both stations are now fully accessible under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The project provided a local economic boost, meeting the goals of the ARRA program. SEPTA contracted with 32 private companies, among them, seven firms from the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program. A total of 507 jobs were supported or created through the project. SEPTA also worked closely with nearby businesses to minimize disruptions during construction. The Spring Garden-Girard project was named one of the Top 100 ARRA projects.